FREE online courses on Financial Ratio Analysis - Forest Management In India - Degradation of Forests

 

Besides deforestation which is diversion of forest to other uses, another phenomenon  namely the degradation of forests has been occurring. It means reduction in the productivity of the forests due to unsustainable harvesting, forest fires, pollution and pests. Productivity mainly refers to production of timber, fire wood, fodder and industrial wood. Degradation has its own impacts. People indulge in over exploitation of forest resources which have declined due to degradation. Declining forest resources affect the poor people and those dwelling around forest areas for sustenance. Degradation affects the ecosystem and capacity of forests as Carbon Dioxide sinks. Another effect is on biodiversity. There is always a threat of species extinction and loss of genetic resources. Desertification too is affected by forest degradation.